A Dose of Kindness: The Big Jab Event at Doncaster Hospital

On Wednesday, October 23rd, Doncaster & Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Charity held a Random Acts of Kindness Day—referred to as the Big Jab Event—to promote flu vaccination among healthcare workers and ensure nurses are protected during flu season. In collaboration with the charity, the local Rapid Relief Team (RRT) in Doncaster participated by distributing 500 Krispy Kreme doughnuts, serving hot drinks, and donating 400 care kits to those in need.

Doncaster & Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Charity is the charitable branch of Doncaster NHS Foundation Trust. It raises funds and donations to support patient care, purchase new medical equipment, and enhance staff development. Focused on the community, the charity delivers projects and services that extend beyond standard NHS funding to improve the overall healthcare experience for patients and staff.

First introduced by RRT Australia in 2017, these care kits aim to provide essential hygiene items to individuals in crisis—such as those displaced by disasters, families in hospitals, and people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Each kit contains personal care essentials, including aloe vera lotion, lip balm, cleansing wipes, a pocket comb, a nail buffer, a toothbrush, and toothpaste, all packed in a convenient washbag. The kits are designed to help individuals in crisis maintain self-care and find the strength to move forward.

The event was a great success, with a strong turnout that included NHS staff collecting care kits for their patients. The Rapid Relief Team (RRT) is honoured to provide these essential kits to those in need and remains committed to this mission, ensuring that individuals facing hardships—whether due to homelessness, hospital stays, or other crises—have access to basic necessities.

Katie Michel, PA to the Chief Executive of Doncaster Hospital, shared her thoughts: “I came down today to get my flu jab, and I received these gifts. It’s been a great experience, and these care kits will be fantastic for all the nurses and clinical staff; thank you very much!”

It’s a simple act of kindness, bringing hope and much-needed support to those in need.